Koh Kood (also known as Ko Kut or Koh Koot) stands as Thailand’s easternmost island, nestled in Trat province near the Cambodian border. Often hailed as one of Thailand’s most beautiful islands, it offers a serene escape with its pristine white beaches, swaying palm trees, crystal-clear waters, and lush rainforests. Unlike more commercialized destinations, Koh Kood maintains a quiet, authentic Thai atmosphere, making it a true tropical oasis for those seeking tranquility and a genuine island experience.
To truly understand the essence of Koh Kood, one might seek insights from those who know it best – its locals. While we haven’t conducted a direct interview, the comprehensive details from the sources allow us to reveal the island’s many “secrets” from an informed, local perspective, ensuring a more insightful and authentic visit.
Why Koh Kood Remains a “Secret” Paradise
Koh Kood is celebrated for its slow-paced village lifestyle and untouched natural beauty, largely due to its commitment to keeping mass tourism at bay. You won’t find major supermarket chains like 7-Eleven here; instead, there are local shops offering daily necessities and fresh produce stalls. This deliberate approach preserves its unique charm, ensuring visitors experience a truly peaceful and authentic slice of Thailand. It’s ideal for those seeking refuge from a busy life, rather than a party destination.
Getting to Koh Kood: The Journey to Paradise
Reaching Koh Kood requires a bit of determination, contributing to its unspoiled nature. There are several reliable options:
- From Bangkok by Road and Sea: The most common way involves taking a minivan or shuttle bus from Bangkok to Laem Sok Pier in Trat Province. This journey takes approximately 5 hours by bus to Trat, followed by about 45 minutes to the pier. From Laem Sok Pier, a boat transfer to Koh Kood takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours by high-speed ferry or catamaran. The Boonsiri Bus and Highspeed Ferry Combo Package is a recommended option, taking around 9 hours in total from Khao San Road in Bangkok. Some services include transfer from the pier to your hotel on Koh Kood.
- From Bangkok by Air: The quickest option is to fly from Bangkok to Trat Airport (TDX), a journey of just over an hour. From Trat Airport, it’s a 30-40 minute taxi ride to Laem Sok Pier.
- From Neighboring Islands: You can also take a ferry or speedboat from Koh Chang or Koh Mak. Koh Mak, a smaller and quieter island, is located between Koh Chang and Koh Kood.
It is advisable to book tickets and accommodation in advance, especially during high season, as capacity can be limited.
Navigating the Island: A Local’s Perspective
While there’s no public transportation like on Koh Chang, exploring Koh Kood is best done independently to uncover its hidden gems.
- Motorbike Rental: The most popular and affordable way to get around is by renting a scooter. Prices typically range from 250-350 THB per day. The roads are generally paved and in good condition, making it easy to drive, although some roads to remote beaches or waterfalls can be unpaved and rutted. Scooters can be rented from most resorts or guesthouses. Locals also sell fuel in repurposed plastic bottles at roadside stalls.
- Songthaew Taxis: Shared songthaew taxis are available for transfers to piers or other hotels, often arranged by your accommodation. However, private island tours by songthaew can be quite expensive.
- Important Note for Drivers: Although Koh Kood’s roads are quieter than Koh Chang’s, caution is advised, especially on blind turns and steep hills. Nighttime driving is not recommended due to limited lighting.
Accommodation: Choices for Every Traveler
Koh Kood offers a wide range of accommodation, from luxury resorts to budget bungalows, primarily along its west coast.
- Luxury: Soneva Kiri is renowned as one of the most luxurious resorts in Thailand, offering villas with private pools, gyms, and even private helicopter transfers. Other high-end options include High Season Pool Villa & Spa and Peter Pan Resort.
- Mid-Range: Resorts like Koh Kood Cabana, To The Sea Resort, Paradise Beach Resort, The Beach Natural Resort, and Shantaa Resort offer excellent value with comfortable amenities, often beachfront access, and unique features.
- Budget: More affordable bungalows and homestays are typically found slightly inland or at the back of beaches. Examples include Suan Maprao Resort, Kuba Bungalows, and Happy Days Guest House. Be aware that budget accommodation can be slightly more expensive than on other Thai islands.
During the rainy season (May to October), some hotels may close, but prices for remaining luxury resorts often drop significantly.
Beaches: Koh Kood’s Pristine Coastlines
The beaches of Koh Kood are consistently described as among the most beautiful in Thailand, characterized by clear water, white sand, and lush palm trees. The west coast hosts the majority of the island’s best beaches.
- Khlong Chao Beach (Tinker Bell Beach): The most popular and developed beach, offering a long stretch of white sand, crystal-clear water, and a mix of luxury and budget accommodations, along with cafes and restaurants. Despite its popularity, it rarely feels crowded.
- Ao Tapao Beach: Considered by some as the island’s best beach, known for its fantastic sunsets due to its west-facing orientation. It’s also the longest beach on Koh Kood. The pier is a popular spot for sunset viewing, although parts may be damaged.
- Bang Bao Beach: Features powder-soft sand and calm, crystal-clear waters within a lush, green bay. It offers good snorkeling opportunities close to the shore.
- Khlong Hin Beach: A beautiful, bowl-shaped sandy beach, about 500 meters long, with palm trees providing shade. The shallow, warm water makes it ideal for children. Locals state that in October, the beach is even more white and soft. It’s considered one of the most beautiful beaches in low season.
- Ao Phrao Beach: The southernmost beach on the west coast, offering a wide white sandy beach with a secluded feel. It has a relaxed, casual atmosphere and a river with mangroves for kayaking behind the beach.
- Ao Jak Bay: A “secret beach” or “hidden gem” with a crescent shape, offering a tranquil environment for pure relaxation.
- Secret Sunset Beach: An idyllic spot with crystal-clear waters, perfect for watching the sunset, which continues into an even more beautiful area for snorkeling.
- Klong Mard Pier & Village: A small fishing village with a beautiful white sandy beach, offering kayak rentals to explore the waters.
While Thai beaches cannot be private property, some resorts may restrict access roads, making it tricky to reach certain areas, though public access is usually available by walking through.
Waterfalls and Natural Wonders: Inner Island Exploration
Beyond the stunning coastline, Koh Kood’s interior offers lush rainforests, impressive rivers, and magnificent waterfalls.
- Khlong Chao Waterfall: The most popular waterfall, with a deep freshwater pool suitable for swimming year-round. It’s easily accessible by motorbike with a short, easy walk through the jungle.
- Huang Nam Kaew Waterfall (formerly “Secret Waterfall”): More remote and less visited, it offers a challenging but rewarding journey with a potholed dirt road. While swimming may not always be possible, the jungle setting is beautiful.
- Khlong Yai Kee Waterfall: A less popular option, its stream can be dry outside the wet season. It’s smaller and quieter than Khlong Chao, also offering a pool for cooling off.
- Ancient Trees: Visit the Big Chai Tree and the 500-year-old Makka Tree (also known as Sai Yai or Big Trees), gigantic trees with spiritual significance located deep in the jungle.
Exploring the forest trails, especially behind Ao Tapao Beach, offers opportunities for running or relaxing under the shade of dense palm trees.
Local Life: Fishing Villages and Authentic Experiences
Koh Kood’s local population of about 2,000 people is concentrated in its two main fishing villages. Visiting these offers a glimpse into traditional Thai and Cambodian island life.
- Ao Salad Fishing Village: Located in the north-east, this sea gypsy village is built on elevated boardwalks and stilt houses over the ocean. It’s a working village, with families involved in fishing, and provides an authentic look at local life. It features a temple with a 30-meter Buddha and a jetty serving as an arrival/departure point for mainland boats. There are a few small seafood restaurants here, like Captain Nhong Seafood. It’s not developed for tourism, with no souvenir shops or many accommodations.
- Ao Yai Fishing Village: Situated at the end of the main road linking the southwest coast beaches, in the south-east of the island. It’s a small fishing village built on stilts, known for being one of the best seafood spots. A viewpoint offers magnificent bird’s-eye views of the village. Noochy Seafood Restaurant is a popular spot here.
These villages are still very much working communities, offering a unique window into local island life, unlike more commercialized areas found elsewhere.
Culinary Delights: Savoring Koh Kood’s Flavors
Koh Kood boasts many small, locally run restaurants that serve authentic Thai flavors, and for food enthusiasts, this is a major draw. Expect a relaxed pace, as food can take time to arrive.
- Seafood: Being a fishing island, seafood is a highlight. Noochy Seafood in Ao Yai fishing village is highly recommended. Koh Raet / Sashimi Island offers a unique floating mini-restaurant experience where fish is caught on the spot. Captain Nhong Seafood in Ao Salad is also a good spot for lunch.
- Authentic Thai Cuisine: Many local spots offer superb, authentic Thai dishes. JK Khao Kaeng is praised for its delicious food, warm hospitality, and very comfortable prices. Chaiyo Restaurant provides real Thai kitchen meals at a great value, though it can be busy. Waree Restaurant offers many Thai dishes for around 50 THB. Some sources mention Chiang Mai Restaurant.
- Western Options: For Western food, Heaven Sense offers pizzas and pastas, freshly made or imported from Italy, known as one of the more upscale places. Pizza & Pasta is a noted Italian restaurant.
- Cafes and Bars: Tawan Eco Bar is a vibrant Rastafari bar with a chill vibe, live music, and good coffee, making it a popular spot in the evenings. Cathi Café (part of Shantaa Resort) offers delicious shakes, homemade sweets, and sea views, perfect for sunset. The Pink Kangaroo Café is known for cakes, Vietnamese coffee, and cocktails in a cute garden. Viewpoint Cafe offers drinks and amazing views, especially at sunset.
Best Time to Visit Koh Kood
Understanding Koh Kood’s seasons is key to planning your trip:
- Dry Season (High Season): The best time to visit is from November to May, particularly December to March. During these months, rainfall is minimal, sunshine averages about 8 hours a day, and the water temperature remains around 28 degrees Celsius.
- Rainy Season (Low Season): From May to October, the region experiences heavy rains, and some businesses may close. While there can be dry periods, planning a short beach vacation during this time is considered a “long shot”. However, prices for resorts and hotels can drop significantly. Historically, Koh Kood was closed during part of this season, but now at least one boat runs daily.
Practical Tips and Local Insights for Your Visit
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, consider these local insights:
- Cash is King: Koh Kood primarily operates on cash. There are only two ATMs on the island, both on the west coast, and they charge a 220 THB fee. It is highly recommended to bring enough cash (Baht) in advance or exchange money on the mainland for better rates.
- Pack Smart: Essential items include sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and sunglasses. For evening walks or scooter rides on unlit dirt roads, a flashlight is a must. Effective insect repellent and Afterbite are also recommended due to the wild jungle environment.
- Internet Connectivity: Wi-Fi can be limited and spotty across most of the island, and mobile data may be non-existent in large stretches. For many, this is seen as a blessing, encouraging disconnection and presence.
- Safety: The island generally feels very safe, with petty theft not a major concern. However, drive scooters cautiously, especially on unpaved roads and at night, as accidents can occur. There is a small hospital on the island that provides professional and affordable healthcare for emergencies.
- Communication: While many locals in tourist areas have basic English, be prepared to use sign and body language, especially in villages. The local culture emphasizes smiling politeness, and staff might be shy to admit misunderstanding.
- Dining Etiquette: At local restaurants, food often takes time to arrive. After your meal, don’t expect the check to arrive promptly; it’s considered rude to rush guests. You will need to ask for the bill.
- Island Pace: Everything on Koh Kood operates at a slow, casual pace – embrace the “island time”.
Conclusion: A Paradise Waiting to Be Explored
Koh Kood offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking a tranquil and authentic Thai island getaway. Its relatively untouched nature, stunning beaches, captivating waterfalls, and genuine local communities make it a truly unique destination. By understanding these “secrets” from a local perspective, visitors can fully appreciate the island’s charm and create unforgettable memories in this beautiful corner of Thailand. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Koh Kood before it potentially undergoes further commercialization.